An advanced precision ILS approach that allows aircraft to land in lower visibility conditions than Category I, using enhanced ground equipment, certified aircraft systems, and specially trained crews. CAT II approaches are typically used by airlines and military transport/tanker aircraft that operate in poor weather environments.
Key characteristics:
- Decision Height (DH): At or above 100 feet above runway threshold.
- Runway Visual Range (RVR): At least 300 meters.
- Ground equipment: High-accuracy ILS transmitters, upgraded approach lighting, and runway monitoring systems.
- Aircraft requirements: Certified avionics (often with dual autopilot or flight director systems), radio altimeter, and redundancy to maintain precision in critical phases.
- Crew requirements: Special CAT II training, recurrent proficiency checks, and strict operational procedures.
Application in DCS World
- DCS aircraft with ILS (e.g., F/A-18C, F-16C, A-10C, C-101) can fly approaches down to ~100 ft AGL if weather is set accordingly, so cadets can simulate CAT II-like landings.
- DCS does not model RVR values, special ground lighting systems, autoland certification, or crew training requirements. The simulator provides only basic ILS functionality without the regulatory framework behind CAT II.
Cadets can simulate CAT II training by setting low visibility in missions and practicing approaches with a 100 ft decision point. This exercise reinforces precision flying and disciplined instrument scanning, though true CAT II certification concepts remain theoretical in DCS.